More byWalter

The actor, 80, stars as a villainous banker in the heist flick Now You See Me, in theaters May 31.

Did you like playing a bad guy in this film?I loved it. Every now and then, a script like this one gets me on my feet and makes me want to go to work again.

Did you always want to be an actor?From about the age of 10. I was in a pantomime and I got a round of applause and loved it. Afterward, I realized it was because my fly was open! To this day, whenever I make a public appearance, my hand goes down to my fly to make sure it’s not undone.

Only you and Jack Nicholson have been nominated for an Oscar in every decade from the 1960s to the 2000s. Will you try for one more?Yeah, I’ll have another go and then retire when I’m 90.

Is there anyone in Hollywood you’d still like to work with?Jennifer Lawrence. I think she’s wonderful. I voted for her for the Oscar. I’d love to play her grandfather or something.

Having played Alfie, do you now know what it’s all about?[laughs] No, whenever you think you know, you get a surprise!

Online Extra: Which of his roles is his favorite?Alfie was the first time I had a big, starring part, the first time I made it in America, and the first time I was nominated for an Oscar, so that part was the most important one in my life.